Ever feel bogged down by all the technology we have at our fingertips? While it’s fun to have so many apps, devices and tools available, technology sometimes gets in the way. It’s so easy to lose focus and get distracted! When you finally do get through a stack of emails, you have 30 more waiting for you. It’s tough to stay off Twitter and Facebook. And coworkers expect you to be available around the clock. Whew!
If you need a couple of tips for staying on task, I’ve listed six suggestions below to get you back on track.
- Keep a running to-do list. Writing things down is huge for remembering everything you need to do.
- Turn big projects into smaller steps. When projects become overwhelming, break them down! Make a bunch of mini projects that you can check off a list.
- Get your least favorite project finished first. Every once in a while, pop in the office early and get your worst projects finished before your inbox starts filling up and your phone starts ringing.
- Unplug. When you’re in a meeting or on a conference call, turn off the devices you aren’t using to stay present and give your full attention.
- Leave your inbox until later. While it’s critical to be responsive at work, you also need uninterrupted time to actually get work done. Set the tone with your team by blocking off chunks of time in your calendar to work on projects.
- Take a break. Get up, take a walk, get a coffee or just simply take a brain break every few hours. Everyone needs to recharge and regroup.
Do you have any tips on how to stay focused at work?